Self-styled "experiential marketing and advertising" firm Swivel Media, whose work includes virtual worlds branding, has announced that former Apple marketing communications manager for partnerships and promotions Kyle McNeely has been appointed its managing director.

In the new role, McNeely will lead the account service division, heading up agency operation and contributing to business development activities. Says McNeely, "[Swivel's] incorporation of both real and virtual experiences into each of its campaigns makes it a leader in its domain. I am honored to be joining Swivel Media to help guide its imminent growth.”

McNeely managed the Apple Student Group on Facebook in addition to its peer-to-peer marketing program, Apple Campus Rep, among other activities with cross-promotion and virtual worlds like Nike + IPod College Tour in Second Life.

Swivel Media founder Erik Hauser said, “Kyle’s a terrific addition to Swivel Media, as we continue to add talent and grow our leadership position in the area of experiential marketing and overall experience design. His academic advertising and branding background, combined with hands-on experience of ground-breaking technologies and how they relate to a generation of always-connected customers makes him ideal for our team and our current and expanding client base."